Rome, the Eternal City, is the capital and largest city of Italy and of the Lazio region. The city has an immensely rich historical heritage and cosmopolitan atmosphere, making it one of Europe’s and the world’s most visited capitals. The historic centre of the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
When in Rome, here are some of the attractions you should visit. The best thing about Rome is that you can actually walk to many of them as they are located within the same area.
My Top 5 Places I Visited in Rome
The Colosseum
Although it is partially ruined because of damage caused by earthquakes and stone-robbers, the Colosseum remains an iconic symbol of Imperial Rome. It is one of Rome’s most popular tourist attractions. Located just east of the Roman Forum, it is estimated that this amphitheatre could hold between 50,000 to 80,000 spectators witnessing gladiatorial fights, making it the largest amphitheatre ever built.
Roman Forum
The Roman Forum was originally used as a marketplace in the ancient city. It was for centuries the centre of Roman public life and saw frequent processions and elections, criminal trials and gladiatorial matches. Many of the oldest and most important structures of the ancient city were located on or near the Forum.
Trevi Fountain
The Trevi Fountain is the largest Baroque fountain in the city of Rome and is one of the most elaborate and romantic fountains in the world. An estimated 3,000 Euros are thrown into the fountain each day! Why? Well, there is a long-standing tradition about throwing a coin into the fountain. Legend has it that if you throw a coin into the fountain (the right way), it will ensure a return to Rome.
Oh, dear! Unfortunately, I didn’t get a chance to add my one Euro or two or three to the many others because there was an ongoing restoration work when I visited in the summer of 2015. The fountain has been reopened and I’ll be back Oceanus!
Castel Sant’Angelo
Castel Sant’Angelo was originally a mausoleum for the Roman emperor Hadrian. Over time, it evolved into a fortress and a castle used by the Popes. Now, it is a museum which also offers pretty cool views of Vatican City.
The Vatican City: St. Peter’s Basilica & The Vatican Museum
The Vatican City, officially the Vatican City State, is a walled enclave and sovereign state within the city of Rome. It is essentially its own country, ruled by the Bishop of Rome – the Pope. It is the smallest internationally recognized independent state in the world by both area and population.
Within Vatican City are religious and cultural sites such as St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums. They feature some of the world’s most famous paintings and sculptures. The unique economy of Vatican City is supported financially by the sale of postage stamps and tourist mementoes, fees for admission to museums, and the sale of publications.
Of course, there are several other places to visit when in Rome. Places like the Pantheon, Spanish Steps and the Victor Emmanuel II monument (cover image), so don’t limit yourself to the list. 🙂
Hey Amarachi.
I looove your blog. Any tips on how to get Italy Visa? Was it a challenge for you?
Thanks Joan.
I got a Schengen visa through the French embassy. (France was the first country I arrived into). The process was quite easy. I applied through VFS in Lagos and it took about 14 days to get it. I don’t have a lot of information about the Italian embassy or visa application process. So I’m not sure how tough or easy it is to get one through them.
Let me bookmark first.
My love for travelling within Africa has almost blinded me to the rest of the world BUT your post just reminded me that there is more. Europe 2018? Rome and The Vatican City here I come, God willing.
Thanks Maggie, we feel the love over here! You certainly make me want to explore Africa more. And yaay! Euro 2018 is definitely not a bad idea!
Vatican City and Egypt are top on my list right now!
3000 Euros every day?? Wawu! What happens to the money? Who takes it…or not? I wonder who even started this interesting tradition though.
http://www.desireuba.wordpress.com
Egypt is top of mine too! The universe is listening. It will happen 🙂
I read somewhere that the money is collected and used to feed the poor of Rome. Here’s also an interesting read about the tradition and Trevi fountain: http://www.todayifoundout.com/index.php/2014/03/throw-coins-fountains/
Thanks for reminding me that I haven’t been to Rome 🙂 Rome and the Vatican are on my list. The way time is flying sha!
You’re welcome! haha… You know, when I read your comment, I was like ‘She’s definitely been and maybe just forgot!’ But yes, Rome and The Vatican City are waiting for you!